Catherine Harrison Balestra, MD was born and raised in Miami, FL. She graduated from Princeton University with a degree in Molecular Biology where she was awarded the Academic All-Ivy award and played Varsity Volleyball. She earned her medical degree from the University of Miami School of Medicine and received multiple accolades including Alpha Omega Alpha medical honor society, “Best Student in Dermatology” award, “Best Student in Anatomy” award, “Best Student in Pharmacology” award and “Best Student in Physiology” award. After completing her internship in Internal Medicine at Mt. Sinai Hospital on Miami Beach, Dr. Balestra received her Dermatology specialty training at the Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery at the University of Miami.

She went on to complete a mentorship in Mohs micrographic surgery taught by renowned Mohs surgeon Harold Rabinovitz, MD. Dr Balestra has been a Fellow of the American Society for Mohs Surgery since 2008. Additionally, she has published numerous articles in medical journals and has performed prize-winning clinical and basic science research presented at local and national dermatology meetings. She is voluntary faculty at the University of Miami Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery where she teaches and lectures to dermatology residents. Dr. Balestra is board certified and specializes in medical and cosmetic dermatology and Mohs micrographic surgery. In her free time, she enjoys snorkeling, boating and spending time with her husband and children.